I love Texas dance halls. I’ve been going to Texas dance halls since before I was old enough to drive. This weekend on a drive back from Gonzales, I had the opportunity to stop in and visit Sengelmann Hall in Schulenburg. This recently renovated 1890’s building has received a great deal of press lately. Texas monthly featured the hall (and others) in the December 2009 issue, and Texas Architect had an article in the March/April 2010 edition. It was also the recent recipient of an AIA Houston award. This hall is a rarity in that dancing takes place on the second floor. Even more rare is that on a Sunday afternoon, folks from all around come to listen and dance to polka music. I found that a good, all ages show makes for great entertainment for young kids. The vibrant community surrounding these places once made these dance halls great. People interested in enjoying and preserving their heritage continue to make them a great place to be.

At only an hour and half from Houston, this hall is a convenient jaunt from Houston. A weekend visit is definitely worth the trip.

Please note that many of the photos taken must be credited to my four year old son William. He was really into it, so he took most of the photos.